New York Tiger Selfies Ban to Put Big Hurt on 'Tinder Guys'

Taking selfies with tigers may soon be banned in the Empire State. That's bad news for "Tinder Guys With Tigers."

A bill introduced by Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal that would prohibit posing with tigers at venues like circuses and county fairs passed the New York State Senate and Assembly on Monday, and now awaits Gov. Andrew Cuomo's signature.

Rosenthal, who represents Manhattan's Upper West Side, said the legislation was needed because there have been seven instances in 15 years in which a tiger escaped or hurt New York residents. According to the New York Post, however, there have only been two "big-cat maulings" at traveling shows in the past 10 years.

The assemblywoman also acknowledged that the ban would curb a trend prevalent on dating apps like Tinder and OKCupid – meathead guys posing with tigers. A hit Tumblr blog called "Tinder Guys With Tigers" has chronicled the growing phenomenon, and The Wall Street Journal said in a recent article about the trend that some users suspect 1 in 10 men on the app sport such a photo.

"They can still pose with bears and monkeys," Rosenthal said. "They just have to take big cats off their list."

If the bill is signed into law by Cuomo, New Yorkers who cuddle a big cat could face a fine of up to $500.

The Post was the only publication covering the legislation that rendered a sarcastic comment about the bill being a waste of taxpayer's time and money. "Because this is what’s important in Albany," its article opened.

Although it was mentioned half in jest, Mediate acknowledged that the bill could also be an infringement on civil liberties.